Sailing training ship "Greif": Back in the water after three years

From the end of 2022, the "Greif" spent almost three years in the characteristic blue hall of the former Volkswerft shipyard, now the Stralsund Maritime Industrial and Commercial Park. The shipyard carried out a complete refurbishment: It restored the steel hull, replaced the deck superstructures, overhauled all the masts and completely relaid the wooden deck. In December 2025, the ship rolled out of the hall - shipyard workers installed the rudder blade and propeller shaft in the open area.

Controlled watering by ship lift

The shipyard used hydraulic technology to transport the traditional sailing ship onto the platform of the ship lift and lowered the "Greif" in a controlled manner. Tugs then brought her to her berth on the quay. The external refurbishment is now largely complete. In the coming months, work will concentrate on the interior of the ship: cabins, technical installations and the entire on-board electrical system are still awaiting completion.

Dr Stefan Fassbinder, Lord Mayor of the University and Hanseatic City of Greifswald, commented on the launch of the "Greif":

We have reached an important stage in our refurbishment. The ship is ready to sail and seaworthy. Everything is finished on the outside, now the interior work will continue."

"Greif" renovation receives great support

The refurbishment of the sail training ship took longer and cost more than planned. Instead of the calculated 4.46 million euros, a total of 7.36 million euros is required. Delays were caused by rising material and labour costs as well as the insolvency of a contracted company.

Read more about the "Greif" here:

• Sailing training ship "Greif": Schooner brig leaves the shipyard with a new deck
• Sailing training ship "Greif": Completion on the brink - who will cover the additional costs?

The Greifswald city council has already approved the additional 2.9 million euros for the outstanding work on the interior, electrics, drive technology and engine. The project is financed by federal funds, state grants, foundation funds, municipal funds from Greifswald and private donations. A central role is played by the Friends of the "Rahsegler Greif".

Maritime landmark of the Baltic Sea coast saved

Once all the work has been completed, the "Greif" will set sail again - as a sailing training ship and ambassador for the University and Hanseatic City of Greifswald. It is not yet clear exactly when. But one thing is certain: the successful restoration will save the historic ship and preserve an important piece of maritime heritage on the Baltic coast.

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